The Jammu Kashmir Joint Public Action Committee (JKJAAC) issued a new declaration following a crucial meeting on October 14, 2026. Responding to public hardships and appeals from the business community, the committee announced the conversion of the ongoing ten-day full lockdown into a ‘smart lockdown.’
Taking public difficulties into account, the committee announced that businesses would be permitted to open three days a week (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday). However, a full lockdown will remain in effect on the other days, with only medical stores, hospitals, and hotels allowed to operate. Goods transport will be permitted to bring in food items on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, while a complete ban on the transportation of construction materials will remain in force.
The declaration expressed grave concern over the occupation of educational institutions—specifically in Rawalakot, Poonch University, Poonch Medical College, and various schools and hostels—by Pakistani forces since June 5, 2026. The committee demanded the immediate withdrawal of forces from these institutions to prevent academic disruption for students. In light of the educational setbacks, the committee directed the voluntary establishment of temporary learning centers and classes.
A complete ban on the felling and transportation of Biyar, Cheer, and Diyar trees will remain in effect; however, the use of tractors for agricultural purposes has been permitted. An appeal has been made to the public to boycott the so-called ‘peace rallies’ orchestrated by security forces and the administration, terming them an act of deception and a conspiracy against public solidarity.
The committee expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to the supreme sacrifices of the four youths martyred in a landmine explosion in Tehsil Mendhla (Hajira) on October 12, 2026, as well as other individuals martyred in Poonch and Bagh (Muhammad Kabir of Sadiqabad; Ashfaq Khan of Reera Bagh/Mattan), while demanding that those responsible be identified and held accountable.
The statement strongly criticized the arrest of lawyer-activist Naila Irshad and Muzaffarabad-based social media activist Azra Alam, as well as the move to place a four-year-old child, Muhammad Kiani, on the ‘Fourth Schedule’ (a watchlist for suspected extremists), labeling these actions as state terrorism.
The committee affirmed its belief in a peaceful and democratic struggle but noted that the ruling classes have yet to constitute a serious or result-oriented negotiation committee. A comprehensive future course of action will be announced following mutual consultation.
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